NAF Chief Orders Intensified Airstrikes Against Bandits, Pledges Civilian Protection

In a renewed push against banditry and insurgency, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has directed Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel to intensify air offensives against criminal elements while prioritizing civilian protection.

This directive is in line with the NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation Action Plan, which ensures that precision air operations target bandits without endangering innocent lives.

Air Power as a Decisive Force Against Banditry
Air Marshal Abubakar issued this directive during his operational visit to the Air Component Headquarters of Operation Fansam Yamma in Katsina and Sokoto States. Addressing NAF personnel, he acknowledged their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining national security.

He stressed that air power remains a critical tool in the fight against insecurity, stating:

“Our air operations must remain relentless and precise, targeting bandit strongholds while ensuring that civilian safety remains paramount. The fight against insecurity requires sustained aerial dominance, intelligence-driven strikes, and strong inter-agency collaboration.”

His visit was aimed at assessing NAF’s operational effectiveness, boosting troop morale, and reviewing ongoing efforts to neutralize terrorist threats in the North-West region.

Strengthening Intelligence, Logistics, and Troop Welfare
Recognizing the strategic importance of intelligence, logistics, and troop welfare, Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed NAF’s commitment to:

• Enhancing intelligence-gathering capabilities to preempt enemy movements.
• Upgrading aircraft and weapon systems to maintain air superiority.
•  Improving personnel welfare and operational facilities to sustain combat effectiveness.

He assured the troops that NAF leadership will continue to provide the necessary resources to ensure mission success.

“The efficiency of our air operations depends on a well-equipped force, reliable intelligence, and highly motivated personnel. We will continue to strengthen these areas to ensure victory against all forms of insecurity.”

On-the-Ground Inspection of Infrastructure and Equipment
During his visit, Air Marshal Abubakar inspected operational aircraft, weapons systems, and ongoing infrastructure projects at the bases in Katsina and Sokoto. His assessment focused on:

🔹 Aircraft readiness – ensuring that combat aircraft are mission-ready at all times.
🔹 Base infrastructure – reviewing progress on new accommodation, office buildings, and maintenance facilities.
🔹 Operational logistics – assessing the supply chain for aviation fuel, spare parts, and ammunition.

In Sokoto, he inspected newly constructed personnel accommodation and operational facilities, ensuring that troops have access to modern and comfortable living conditions.

In Katsina, he reviewed key projects, including:

A new aircraft hangar, which will enhance maintenance capabilities.

Additional troop accommodation, improving living standards.

A Base church, emphasizing NAF’s commitment to personnel well-being.

NAF’s Role in Counter-Banditry Operations
The visit comes at a time when banditry remains a major security challenge in the North-West, with criminal gangs engaging in kidnappings, killings, and destruction of communities. The NAF, working alongside the Nigerian Army, police, and other security agencies, has been relentless in launching airstrikes on bandit hideouts, significantly degrading their operational capacity.

Air Marshal Abubakar reiterated that NAF will: Increase the frequency of air raids on identified criminal enclaves.

Deploy more ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) aircraft to track enemy movements.

Strengthen cooperation with ground troops for better tactical coordination.

“Our mission is clear – we must degrade and eliminate the threat of banditry. Through precision air operations and strong collaboration with other security agencies, we will continue to restore peace and stability in the region.”

A Renewed Commitment to National Security
With the intensified operations, the Nigerian Air Force reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring national security through superior air power and strategic coordination.

The CAS’ visit boosted troop morale and signaled renewed determination to wage an unrelenting war against bandits and insurgents. The NAF remains committed to safeguarding the sovereignty of Nigeria and ensuring that criminal elements are decisively dealt with.